Published by the government of Zimbabwe
9 November 2009
Harare — GOVERNMENT has signed agreements with various banks to accept offer letters as collateral to assist farmers with finance to ensure that the farming season is successful.
Lands and Rural Resettlement Minister Herbert Murerwa urged the nation to be united and have a common goal to ensure the country has enough food.
He made the remarks while addressing students participating at the Joint Command and Staff Course at Zimbabwe Staff College last week.
"We have agreed with several banks and some are already accepting offer letters as collateral.
"Government is still negotiating with banks for them to accept 99 year leases as collateral."
Minister Murerwa said farmers who received implements from Government should not personalise them but should assist others who did not have.
"Zimbabwe is for us all, let's not personalise implements, we must make sure that neighbours help each other with inputs and implements," he said.
Minister Murerwa also said Government was aware of various land disputes going on among former farm owners and new owners.
"We are aware of on going disputes among farmers with some farmers who have offer letters failing to occupy their land because of litigation in court.
"Government is encouraging farmers to co-exist and ensure that the next farming season is a resounding success," he said.
Minister Murerwa said the current land audit was a noble idea aimed at fully knowing "who is where and what is being done".
"Government wants to make sure that no land remains underutilised, the nation should reclaim its position as Africa's breadbasket.
"Government is working on resolving farm disputes, priority should be given to those with offer letters.
He also said, under the GPA, partners agreed that the land issue was irreversible.
"GPA partners agreed that the land issue is irreversible and they also agreed to mobilise funds to compensate affected white farmers.
The minister, however, dismissed recent reports of new farm invasions saying there was no such thing.
"Government will make sure that loose ends are tied pertaining to the land issue," he added.
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